Best cloud storage platforms that make backing up your data a doddle
There are a few things to look for in a good cloud storage platform. For some, it's convenience. That might mean sticking with the service that comes bundled with your phone, laptop or broadband plan. For others, it's about reliability. You might want something that quietly backs up everything on your computer without needing to press a button.
Most platforms give you a bit of free space to get started, with the option to upgrade if you need more. You can back up specific folders, sync files across your devices or upload things manually when it suits you. Some services come with handy extras like file sharing or real-time collaboration tools. Others focus more on privacy and encryption.
One of the biggest benefits of going with a household name like Google or Microsoft is that you often get access to their full online Office suites as part of the package. But lesser-known services can be cheaper or offer better privacy tools. We've tested the best cloud storage platforms for 2025 to help you decide which one is right for you.
How we tested
We set up an account with eight of the top cloud storage platforms and tried them out across different devices, including laptops, smartphones and tablets. We looked at how easy each one was to use day to day, how quickly files uploaded and downloaded, and whether the mobile and desktop apps were up to scratch. We also explored what kind of features were included on each plan — things like version history, file sharing, collaborative tools and encryption settings.
We moved large and small files between devices, tested syncing speeds and tried backing up folders in bulk. In most cases, it wasn't the storage platform that slowed us down, but our own internet connection. We also took into account things like how much storage you get for free, how simple it is to upgrade, and whether any extra perks like office tools or family plans were useful additions.
Why you can trust us
Ian Evenden has been testing cloud storage platforms for years, comparing everything from file syncing and sharing features to security and ease of use. With a background in computing and tech journalism, he's reviewed everything from Chromebooks to antivirus software for IndyBest since 2021, so he knows what makes a service stand out.
The best cloud storage platforms for 2025 are:
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Out
34 minutes ago
- Time Out
SkillsFuture Festival returns with over 100 events to help you upskill and stay ahead
10 years in, and the SkillsFuture movement is still going strong with more Singaporeans taking a closer look at their skills and careers to stay ahead. This year's festival brings over 100 exciting events islandwide to help you explore what's next – whether you're eyeing a new job, picking up something new, or simply figuring out your next move. Running from July 7 to August 18, this six-week festival packs in hands-on workshops, immersive learning journeys, industry talks, and job fairs islandwide. It kicks off with the SkillsFuture Roadshow at VivoCity (July 10 to 13), where you can get practical career tools, explore courses with enhanced subsidies, and participate in on-site career and skills consultations offering personalised advice. Curious about how AI is changing your job? Navigate the digital future with Skills Ignited: The AI & Digital Security Roadshow (July 17 to 20), co-hosted by Microsoft, at Suntec. Expect exclusive insights into emerging job trends and opportunities from leading tech companies. Tech-savvy types should head to the Singapore Management University (SMU) for Unlocking Opportunities in Cybersecurity (July 18 and 19) – think hands-on learning, expert talks, and even on-site hiring opportunities. Meanwhile, if you've ever considered a career in healthcare or early childhood education, swing by the Care Economy Jobs and Skills Fair (July 25 to 27) at Toa Payoh Hub (July 25 to 27) for a closer look into these rewarding and fast-growing sectors. SFF@CDC events (July 16 to August 16) are also popping up across the heartlands, bringing SkillsFuture support closer to home. Expect practical tips on mid-career reskilling and easy-to-understand guidance on the latest national schemes available. And here's a hot tip for the office crowd: the final SkillsFuture Roadshow (August 12 to 15) at UOB Plaza Atrium is designed for the busy bees in the CBD. It's a one-stop-shop for quick career tips, training support info and advice on trending upskilling courses – ideal if you're considering a career switch or just want to future-proof your current one.
Reuters
3 hours ago
- Reuters
Musk's xAI raises $5 billion each in fresh debt and equity, Morgan Stanley says
June 30 (Reuters) - Elon Musk's xAI has completed a $5 billion debt raise alongside a separate $5 billion strategic equity investment, Morgan Stanley (MS.N), opens new tab said on Monday, as the startup looks to expand its AI infrastructure through data centres amid intensifying competition in the industry. The $5 billion raised in debt consists of financing of secured notes and term loans, Morgan Stanley in a statement posted on social media platform X. The deal was oversubscribed and included prominent global debt investors, it added. Reuters earlier reported that xAI was on track to close on a $5 billion debt raise led by Morgan Stanley, despite tepid investor demand. In a separate report, Bloomberg News said that xAI was in talks to raise $4.3 billion through an equity investment on top of its $5 billion debt funding plans. XAI did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment outside regular business hours. The proceeds will support xAI's continued development of AI solutions, a data center and its flagship Grok platform, the bank said. Apart from selling debt, xAI has also been in talks to raise about $20 billion in equity, which would value the company at more than $120 billion, with some investors placing valuations as high as $200 billion.
The Independent
4 hours ago
- The Independent
Tinder is testing facial recognition for users as a new security feature
Tinder is piloting a new featuring using facial recognition scans to verify profiles and increase security. New users in California will now be mandated to take a video selfie during the app's onboarding process which Tinder will compare against the user's other photos to verify their profile is genuine. The app will also check the scan against faces used on other accounts and provide verified profiles with a special badge. Tinder will store a non-reversible, encrypted face map to detect duplications, according to Axios, which reported on the new feature. "We see this as one part of a set of identity assurance options that are available to users," Yoel Roth, head of trust and safety at Tinder's parent company Match Group, told the outlet. "Face Check ... is really meant to be about confirming that this person is a real, live person and not a bot or a spoofed account." The feature is already in use in Colombia and Canada, and California will be its first U.S. pilot market. The stored facial data is deleted once a user deletes their profile, Tinder claims. Computer and app users have long attempted to use fraudulent identities on public profiles, for purposes ranging from financial 'romance scams' to full-blown, in-depth attempts at pretending to be someone else, a practice known as 'catfishing.' U.S. Justice Department and FBI officials told CBS News in 2024 that there were more than 64,000 romance scams in the U.S. the previous year. Tinder Swindler, ' who is accused of using dating apps to swindle matches out of millions. Tinder and its competitors have previously added features such as identification verification, real-time photo verification, and location-sharing to prevent safety issues.
